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Myopia, or nearsightedness, is more than having to wear glasses to see things clearly far away. It is a lifestyle disease that has increased in prevalence by 60 percent in the U.S. over the past 40 years and is projected to affect one half of the world’s population by 2050. This epidemic has far-reaching consequences, as myopia, particularly higher levels, is associated with a range of serious eye diseases later in life.

Environmental and genetic factors both play a role. Having two nearsighted parents increases risk six times versus if neither is, and more highly myopic parents are likely to have more highly myopic children. Long periods of time spent indoors has a big impact, too. The huge increase in electronic device use is closely associated with an ever-larger nearsighted population.

There is hope, however. Fascinating recent research suggests that the more time young children spend outdoors before they become nearsighted, the more the condition can be delayed. Once nearsightedness begins, the evidence is less clear that outside time can slow things down, but it’s still beneficial in many other ways. Numerous studies over the past decade have confirmed and clarified three methods to reduce myopia progression in children. Each year brings better understanding and suggestions of even newer approaches. Two treatments are optical, and the third is pharmaceutical. Each one demonstrates 40 percent or greater slowing of myopia.

Atropine drops were first used for this purpose more than 100 years ago. The side effects of increased light sensitivity and decreased near focusing make this an unpopular choice. New evidence indicates drastically lower amounts may be comparably effective with insignificant side effects, leading to a surge of current interest. One drop in each eye at bedtime also makes this a simple treatment to follow.

The way light focuses in the periphery of the back of the eye is believed to influence signals for the eye to grow and become more myopic or not. Glasses and traditional contact lenses focus light in a way that results in a “grow” signal. Specially designed soft lenses alter this and have been shown effective in slowing myopia. Another technique with significant clinical and experimental support, called orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, uses rigid lenses and molds to achieve this. Sleeping with the molds overnight changes the front shape through the next day. This allows clear daytime vision without glasses or contact lenses, making it an excellent choice for young, active children. Ortho-K is effective and convenient for adults, but its ability to put the brakes on childhood myopia is what really makes it shine in my mind!

It’s exciting news! Myopia can be controlled!

Dr. Jacobs is an accomplished Blacksburg optometrist and local philanthropist. His business, Drs. Jacobs & Diaz Optometrists, has been a fixture at 620 N. Main St. in Blacksburg for 27 years. www.stevejacobsod.com